A Good Routine
The past few weeks have been full of turmoil – tragedy, protest, an erratic economy - all on top of the continuing threat of corona virus. One thing I’ve realized – the importance of a good basic routine to help you navigate turbulent times.
If you are out of synch with your routine, it’s time to catch your breath, readjust and repair that foundation.
A good routine is your stable base. It can help you build wisely over the long term, it can help you expand your skills, it can help you innovate, experiment and try new things – with less risk.
It’s all Frankie’s fault.
He was sitting on top of the guest towels.
Seeing him perched there, watching my every move, made me realize I had slipped in my routine. It had been weeks since I checked to make sure my guest room had clean fresh towels.
With cancellations and self isolation, I had stopped doing the basic, regular things. I stopped refilling the soap containers, I stopped checking my inventory for wear and tear, I stopped dusting behind the head board.
These are small things with small consequences.
But small things lead to bigger things. I wasn't checking my calendar and paying attention to emails and alerts from Airbnb. That can have a big impact, especially as travel resumes and bookings are on the rise.
He’s a cat – but he can be intimidating. Something about those wide golden eyes!
Upward Trends
Recent data shows an upward trend in travel and bookings at the global level. For a lot of us this is a welcome sign that economic recovery is on its way.
AirDNA is reporting that global bookings have seen a 127% increase over the last six weeks. As of mid-May reservations had rebounded – and had come remarkably close to pre-corona levels.
These reservations track closely to identified vacation spots. That’s important to know. While individuals may be ready to travel, it doesn’t mean cities are ready to host mass gatherings. The convention and conference dependent locations may still experience stagnant bookings. More and more corporations and events are offering virtual experiences and virtual work meetings.
Who is traveling?
It’s no surprise that the areas rebounding quickly are primarily leisure destinations. We had projected that the domestic leisure markets would be the first to bounce back. People released from lockdown in urban areas may be desperate for a vacation get away!
The new data show the majority of bookings are from travelers who originate from within the country.
People may not be totally comfortable taking international flights just yet. In the short term that means your target audience may change - so your marketing and messaging may need to change as well.
Stay Clean and Stay Safe
It is also no surprise that New Zealand had the highest increase – 465% more bookings. It is obviously seen as a “safe” place to visit. But the US is in there, coming in third with a 202% increase.
As the market rebounds and you get back to those solid, stable rhythms of operation, offering a “certified clean” stay will still be a priority.
There will be a lot of competition, so make sure you communicate well with potential guests – clearly communicate your cleaning standards, your cleaning methods and your cleaning schedule.
It’s all about philosophy
Who we are determines what kind of host we will be – our life philosophy will inform our hosting philosophy. Your business and your property should reflect an equitable hospitality that is available to everyone.
Ask yourself – what makes me uncomfortable?
We can set house rules for some behaviors, but that doesn’t mean the rules keep our own attitudes in check.
Moments of personal interaction often reveal our bias and prejudice. It’s not in overt legal discrimination – but in a lack of kindness, the openness of our conversation and the warmth of our welcome
I found these beautiful hand blown glass lamps at a shop in upstate New York.
Keep the lamps lit
Like strong roots tapping into a deep well – a good routine can help you be hospitable and survive long periods of reservation drought.
Transitioning out of the corona virus reality and back into hosting will be stressful enough – so I’m taking Frankie’s advice and getting back to my routine.
In hosting and in life - keep your oil jar full and keep the lamps lit! You never know when the light is needed.